Posted by ken k on November 14, 2000 at 22:45:22:
In Reply to: a good mouthpeice?? posted by Good Student on November 14, 2000 at 21:28:35:
The problem with not being able to get a big sound is probably caused by the horn more than the mouthpiece. The 641 (if I am thinking of the right horn) is not a very large horn and is better suited to small ensemble situations. In an effort to get a big sound you are probably overblowing the horn, which will cause the sloppy attacks too. Erik made a good suggestion to try buzzing the note on the mouthpiece alone first and then trying it on the horn. Then gradually try to attack the note louder and louder, keeping the embouchure (sp?)centered or focused on the note you want. This makes what we call this a good centered attack. You will soon find the limit to the amout of sound the horn will produce that is pleasing. When the tone starts to sound like ripping canvas, you will know you have gone too far!
Another thought is that you may find it easier to get good centered attacks with a smaller mouthpiece. The larger the mouthpiece the more your embouchure has to support itself and the harder it is to get good centered attacks. A smaller mouthpiece like the Conn Helleberg 7B may help.
Good Luck and keep working at it!
ken k